Course description

The training covers the Hydropower Sustainability Standard and how it can be used to improve the sustainability performance of hydropower projects. This training course is designed for professionals from all backgrounds interested in increasing their knowledge of hydropower sustainability.

Upon completion of this course, you will become a Certified User of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, showcasing your commitment and expertise in sustainable hydropower practices. The course certificate will not only enhance your professional credibility but also open doors to new opportunities in a rapidly evolving industry.

Course features

  • Flexible Learning

    Engage with our content anytime, anywhere, to suit your busy schedule

  • Interactive Activities

    Participate in activities and discussions with trainers and fellow learners to deepen your understanding and apply knowledge effectively

  • Practical Tools and Resources

    Gain access to case studies, templates and guides that you can immediately implement in your projects


Master international sustainability practices

Gain expert knowledge in sustainability practices that are reshaping the hydropower industry. Equip yourself with the cutting-edge skills and knowledge of the Standard for environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in hydropower.


Enhance your decision-making skills

Acquire the ability to strategically plan projects with a sustainability-first approach, ensuring long-term viability and reduced environmental impact. Understand how to incorporate sustainability into every phase of your project, from construction to operation, minimising risks and enhancing efficiency.


Conduct comprehensive internal assessments

Develop the skills to perform thorough internal assessments on ESG issues, enabling your organisation to self-monitor and adapt swiftly to regulatory changes. Learn how to identify potential issues before they become problematic, ensuring compliance with international standards and improving overall project performance.

Who should attend?

  • Project Managers looking to integrate sustainability practices into their hydropower project lifecycle

  • Environmental Consultants eager to deepen their expertise in hydropower-specific sustainability issues and offer additional services to their clients

  • Regulatory Compliance Officers who would like to align national regulations and policies with international best practices

  • Investors and Financial Analysts interested in adopting the Standard in their investment risk framework and due diligence processes

Take a sneak peak of the course


Course curriculum

    1. Hello from your trainers

    2. Course outline, objectives and structure

    3. How to navigate the platform

    1. Lesson 1: Understanding sustainability in hydropower

    2. Activity 1: Sustainability concepts

    3. Lesson 2: Introduction to the HS Standard

    4. Activity 2: Sections of the HS Standard

    5. Lesson 3: Governance

    6. Activity 3: HS Standard terms and definitions

    7. Lesson 4: Reporting templates

    8. Activity 4A: Scope and Principle statements

    9. Activity 4B: Becoming familiar with reporting templates

    10. Quiz: Module 1 review

    1. Lesson 5: Business value of the HS Standard

    2. Activity 5: Application of the HS Standard

    3. Lesson 6: Unlocking funding opportunities

    4. Activity 6: Hydropower criteria for green bonds

    5. Lesson 7: Comparison with other standards

    6. Activity 7: HS Standard and the World Bank Group Standards

    7. Quiz: Module 2 review

    1. Lesson 8: Assessment Process

    2. Activity 8A: Assessment phases and activities

    3. Activity 8B: Roles and responsibilities

    4. Lesson 9: Preparing an assessment

    5. Tips for conducting assessments

    6. Activity 9A: Categorising evidence

    7. Activity 9B: Interview skills

    8. Quiz: Module 3 review

    1. Lesson 10: Scoring methodology

    2. Activity 10: Find the gap

    3. Lesson 11: Judging gap significance

    4. Activity 11A: Minimum requirements

    5. Activity 11B: Advanced requirements

    6. Quiz: Module 4 review

    1. Lesson 12: E&S action plan

    2. Activity 12: Developing an action plan

    3. Lesson 13: Compiling an assessment report

    4. Activity 13: Summarising assessment results

    5. Quiz: Course review

    6. Exam

    7. Congratulations and next steps

    8. Closing survey

About this course

  • €500,00
  • 13 lessons + 2 hours of videos
  • 13 activities + quizzes
  • 20 hours of learning

Frequently asked questions

  • Is this course right for me?

    This course offers a dynamic and thorough look into hydropower sustainability. You will learn how to apply an internationally recognised framework to elevate hydropower development around the world.

  • Am I right for this course?

    Yes! We encourage applications from professionals with all levels of knowledge and experience.

  • Will I receive a certificate?

    Yes. Participants who successfully complete the exam will receive an official certificate from the Hydropower Sustainability Alliance and will be accredited as Certified Users of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard.

  • What happens if I fail the exam?

    Not to worry, if you fail your first attempt at the exam, you will be able to resit the exam at a later date.

  • How much does this course cost?

    The cost of this training is €500 + VAT per participant. HSA and IHA members are eligible for a 10% discount.

  • What is the difference between a Certified User and an Accredited Assessor Training?

    Certified User training enables you to undertake unofficial assessments within your organisation. You can also prepare an organisation for an official assessment to be conducted by an independent Accredited Assessor, as well as lead on assessment follow up activities. Accredited Assessor training enables you to provide commercial services using the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, most notably conducting official assessments for external organisations. The decision on which course is right for you will often depend on the organisation you work for and your career path. If you need to discuss which course is best for you please contact our training team at [email protected]